Jackett: Millwall have to respect "formidable" Wigan line-up

KENNY Jackett says Millwall are under no illusions as to the size of the task ahead in their FA Cup semi-final against Wigan at Wembley.

The Latics dispatched Everton in the last round of the competition and are firm favourites heading into Saturday's clash, with manager Roberto Martinez declaring he has a clean bill of health.

But Jackett insists the Lions have every chance of progressing to the final – and has called on his side to "play the match and not the occasion" on the day.

He said: "It's a great game to look forward to and it's a big opportunity for us. We've done well to get this far but we want to go to Wembley and put on a performance that gives us a chance of winning.

"We understand Wigan are a very talented team and have done exceptionally well to maintain their Premier League status. They have some excellent players and will see this as an opportunity as well.

"Wigan are good on the ball. Arouna Kone has to be respected because the team has lifted since he came back from injury. The link up between Jean Beausejour and Shaun Maloney is a good one.

"They are very good going forward. They have some physical presence and they're a big side. When they get their best side out, it is a formidable starting line-up.

"Wigan are capable of beating anybody in the Premier League on their day. I don't know if April is a great time to play them because they always get going around this time."

But Jackett believes Millwall's achievements in the FA Cup this term have been equally impressive – and admits the prospect of playing European football next season is a tantalising one.

"It's a great feeling," he admitted. "We have got through all types of ties to get here – we've beaten a Premier League club, a non-league side away and then won a replay at Ewood Park.

"The FA Cup throws up different games and we've negotiated them all. To be 90 minutes away from Europe is great for the club and the players, because that would be a big achievement."

31,500 Lions supporters will descend on Wembley this weekend but press attention in the build up to the game has been centred on the fact that a large number of Wigan's allocation remains unsold.

"For our fans, the FA Cup has always been a big competition," Jackett said. "We have always sold a lot of tickets, home and away, and we're always confident of selling our allocation at Wembley.

"There will be some empty seats, but I do not think that is disappointing – it's expected. Whether the distribution [should have been different], I don't know. It won't detract from a great atmosphere."